FUMDHAM was created in 1986 in São Raimundo Nonato, Piauí State, by researchers from a binational scientific cooperation (France-Brazil). A team of scientists from different countries working in the region since 1973. The research topic is set in 1978's The Man in Southeast Piaui: From Prehistory to the present day. Man-Environment Interaction.

The FUMDHAM acts formally linked to institutions of federal, state and municipal. At the federal level, has signed a partnership agreement between the Foundation and the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, aimed at implementation of the Management Plan of the National Park Serra da Capivara. It also has the responsibility of technical-scientific Conservation Unit, takes as its defense and maintenance.